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BACK ISSUES (1-56)

Back Issues all sold out

EX magazine ceased publication in the summer of 2016 and, unfortunately, we have no more back copies avauilable to purchase. You may be able to pick up some highly collectable copies on eBay.

Here's a summary of what appeared in previous issues of the West Ham retro magazine . . .

Issue 1 - November 2002Interviews with Alan Taylor, Jeroen Boere, Dale Gordon and Andy Nelson, plus features on the opening of the new club museum, the day Bobby Moore was dropped and the launch of Boys of ‘86 Ltd.

Issue 2 - December 2002Interviews with Julian Dicks (part 1), David Cross, Derek Hales, Iain Dowie, John Charles and Dave Dunmore, plus features on when Martin Peters feared for his World Cup place, ticket collecting and Squelchers.

Issue 4 - February/March 2003Interviews with Billy Bonds, Keith Robson, Ernie Gregory (part 1) and Ray Stewart, plus features on the relegation issue, Bobby Moore memorabilia and a tribute to the great man on the 10th anniversary of his death.

Issue 8 - September 2003Exclusive interview with Alvin Martin, who reveals for the first time that he DID contact the club to make it known that he wanted to be considered as Glenn Roeder's replacement. We also look at the other candidates the club ignored in favour of Alan Pardew, plus interviews with Neil Ruddock, Kenny Brown (jnr) and Malcolm Musgrove. We also pay tribute to the late Clive Charles.

Issue 9 - October 2003Exclusive interview with Brian Dear, who gives his version of what really happened in the infamous 1971 Blackpool nightclub rumpus involving him, Bobby Moore, Jimmy Greaves and Clyde Best. Allen McKnight relives is 'McKnightmare' under Lou Macari, while there are also in-depth interviews with Stuart Pearson and Stuart Slater, plus we join the Boys of 86 at the races.

Issue 10 - November/December 2003Mark Ward reflects on his highs and lows at Upton Park and reveals he's considering a move to Australia. Relatives and former 60s team-mates Bobby Howe and Trevor Hartley are interviewed together, while there are also exclusives with Keith Coleman, just before he emigrated to Cyprus, and US-based Trevor Dawkins.

Issue 11 - January 2004FA Cup winner Eddie Bovington reveals his frosty relationship with Ron Greenwood, 80s midfielder Alan Dickens explains why he turned his back on the game to drive a black cab, plus there's an exclusive with 70s striker Billy Jennings, now a FIFA agent. We also name every player to have appeared for the Hammers in an official league or cup match since 1919 in a new numerical list compiled by Stuart Allen.

Issue 12 - February 2004Part one of our exclusive with Hammers legend Billy Bonds, as he talks about his heroic playing days at Upton Park under the guidance of Ron Greenwood and John Lyall, leading the team to two FA Cup final victories and still going strong in the top flight at the age of 41. Also, late 50s prolific striker Vic Keeble talks about banging in goals alongside Johnny Dick and theb partnership that sparked Hammers to promotion in 1958, while former winger Kevin Keen looks back on a past playing days and a future coaching career with the Hammers.

Issue 13 - March 2004Bonzo returns for part two, covering his years in the managerial hot-seat. He admits that he never enjoyed management, refused to publicly front the infamous bond scheme and talks candidly, for the first time, about his acrimonious departure from Upton Park in August 1994. What did he say about his old mate Harry Redknapp - and why they still have spoken since Bill left the club. Another ex-winger, Mark Robson, recalls a memorable year playing for the team he loved. And local-born goalkeeper Colin Mackleworth looks back on a brief but eventful career at Upton Park, reliving his nightmnare ordeal at the hands of Man United.

Issue 14 - April 2004Goalkeeping hero Ludek Miklosko talks about his loyal service as a player and coach at Upton Park, 70s favourite Pat Holland recalls brave successful career the club, while former midfielder Paul Allen looks back on record-breaking contribution to 1980 FA Cup final triumph. Plus, an exclusive report Auction of Year Christies in South Kensington

Issue 15 - May 2004 (40-year FA Cup Final special)Our special 40th anniversary edition paying tribute to the 1964 FA Cup-winning side that secured the club's first-ever major domestic triumph. In part one of a major exclusive, we talk to Ronnie Boyce, the man who scored the winning goal in that memorable 3-2 victory over Preston North End. Boycie talks about his memories of the day and subsequent distinguished playing career at Upton Park. Plus 64 things you may not know about the Wembley winners, and a report from Preston's recent reunion dinner for both teams. We also talk to 80s striker Bobby Barnes, now working for the PFA.

Issue 16 - August 2004 Sorry, this issue has sold out!The interview they all wanted and only EX got. Fifteen years after leaving the club, John Lyall finally breaks his silence to talk candidly about his 34 years of loyal service to the Hammers. In part one of this blockbuster exclusive, John talks about his early years at Upton Park and the footballing education he received under the guidance of Ron Greenwood. Also, part two of our Ronnie Boyce exclusive, as he covers his coaching career under Lyall and sad departure from the club in 1995. Also, former goalscoring favourite John Hartson recalls his eventful spell at the club between 1997 and 1999.

Issue 17 - September 2004Part two of our blockbuster exclusive with Upton Park legend John Lyall, as he talks about his distinguished managerial career that yielded two FA Cup final victories, a Second Division Championship success and the club's highest ever league placing. Also, we talk to Matty Holmes, a former fans favourite in the early 90s who remembers his Upton Park career with pride, and Roger Cross, the former 60s striker and current Chief Scout who talks about his long and loyal association with the Hammers. PLUS! Sport Remembered Auction - A brand new feature, as we give readers the chance to bid for a number of exclusive and valuable items of Hammers memorabilia.

Issue 18 - October 200470s striker Bryan 'Pop' Robson reflects on his two spells at Upton Park and reveals his regret at not staying longer, while another goalscoring favourite, Leroy Rosenior, talks exclusively about his eventful Hammers career and his recent success in becoming the highest ranked black manager in English football. Finally, long-serving and loyal defender Steve Potts looks back on a career that took in almost 500 appearances over a period of 17 years in the claret and blue.

Issue 19 - November 2004Long-serving goalkeeper Bobby Ferguson talks about his Upton Park career after making a brief return to Essex from his home in Adelaide, Australia where he has lived for the past 23 years, while we also meet up with Steve Jones, the soap-factory worker who appeared from nowhere to mix with the heroes of English football in the early 90s is attempting to keep up to speed with the superstars again - collecting autographs for a living. Plus, we publish a full extract from Brian Belton's new book, Burn Budgie Byrne - Football Inferno, paying full tribute to the late inside-forward who illuminated Upton Park in the 60s.

Issue 20 - December 2004Long-serving central defender Tony Gale reflects on his 10-year career at Upton Park and his subsequent switch from playing to commentating in his new role as one of English football's most respected media pundits, while we travel to Reading to meet up with Eamonn Dolan, a former Upton Park youth prodigy whose playing career was beset by injury and then finished early after a brave battle against cancer. Now building a reputation as an excellent young coach, Eamonn reveals how the values and standards he developed under John Lyall stood in good stead for the future. Finally, we meet up with a fans favourite from the 1950s flying winger Harry Hooper, a player whose sudden departure had the Upton Park faithful in uproar.

Issue 21 - January 2005Former classy midfielder Ian Bishop talks exclusively about the influential effect of the Upton Park crowd, those 'gay rumours' and his imminent move to the USA. We also talk to Jimmy Neighbour, the former Spurs winger who spent four years at Upton Park during a memorable period in the club's history that brought an FA Cup triumph, a Second Division title success, a European campaign and another Wembley appearance in the League Cup final thanks to his semi-final strike. We also have exclusive pictures and coverage from Paolo Di Canio's recent headline-grabbing display for Lazio in the controversial Rome derby and catch up with legendary left-back Julian Dicks on a recent visit to Upton Park, as he typically pulls no punches with his views on the current team.

Issue 22 - February 200515 years after his controversial departure from the managerial hot-seat at Upton Park, Lou Macari reveals his bitter regret at leaving the club too soon and gives the full story behind his eventful seven months in charge. We also talk to Geoff Pike, the long-serving midfielder who was a key part of the club's success in the early 80s and still has an involvement with the Hammers as a PFA regional coach.

Issue 23 - March 2005An issue on the right-back track, as we talk exclusively to former number twos Ray Stewart and Tim Breacker. Stewart was the fearless Scottish right-back who gave 100% commitment to West Ham United throughout every single day of his 12-year career at Upton Park and still possesses a genuine love for the club, some 14 years after leaving. We get the full story from the man who was renowned for his penalty taking but gave so much more to the cause. We also speak to Breacker, who followed Stewart in the right-back position at Upton Park almost 15 years ago. Plus, in honour of Hammers legend Stewart, we feature the most memorable penalty-kicks taken by the Hammers in modern times.

Issue 24 - April 2005In the wake of revealing his possible involvement in a takeover bid at Upton Park, Hammers legend Tony Cottee explains to EX his sadness and disappointment at being immediately axed as the club's popular matchday host and lead columnist for the official club magazine. We also talk to Peter Brabrook, a member of the triumphant FA Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup winning squads of the mid-60s and a member of Chelsea's last Championship-winning side in 1955, as the former England winger prepares for two major anniversary celebrations. There is also an exclusive chat with Rob Jenkins, who spent 25 years at Upton Park as club physio, following in the footsteps of his father Bill.

Issue 25 - May 2005 (40-year ECWC Anniversary/Reunion Special)In a special souvenir edition of EX Magazine, we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the greatest night in West Ham United's history - May 19, 1965 - when the club triumphed over TSV Munich in the European Cup Winners' Cup Final at Wembley, by talking exclusively to two stars of the victory, winger John Sissons and goalkeeper Jim Standen, now living in South Africa and the USA respectively. We also look back at the game itself, speak to fans who recall the victory and also hear from the son of Alan Sealey - Hammers' match-winning hero on that famous night.

Issue 26 - August 2005It's more than two years since Paolo Di Canio's West Ham United career came to an end, following relegation from the Premiership in May 2003. Now back in his home city with boyhood heroes Lazio, and still going strong in Serie A at the ripe old age of 37, Paolo has never spoken candidly about the events surrounding his Upton Park departure - until now. EX Magazine travelled out to Rome to accept an invitation from the man who was once described by Harry Redknapp as 'pure genius'. We also look back on our fantastic gala dinner held to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the club's European Cup winners' Cup triumph in 1965 and catch up with 60s striker Roger Hugo, who scored twice in just three appearances for the club.

Issue 27 - September 2005West Ham United and the world of football lost one of its most likeable and charismatic characters when former favourite Noel Cantwell died this month. In this special feature on the former Republic of Ireland international full-back, we look back at his career with some of those who knew him best, including fellow ex-Hammers, John Bond, John Lyall and Jack Burkett. There is also an exclusive interview with 90s cult hero John Moncur, who talks candidly about the 'foreign invasion', why he chose Hammers instead of Chelsea, the Roeder regret and Christianity.

Issue 28 - November 2005Following our tribute to the late Noel Cantwell in the last issue of EX, this month we feature another popular Irish player to wear the claret and blue. Liam Brady spent only three years at Upton Park but showed enough of his exquisite talent in that time to make him a crowd favourite. We meet up with the former Arsenal and Juventus legend, and also bring you exclusive coverage of the recent dinner at London's Britannia Hotel to honour the 1975 and 1980 FA Cup-winning sides. Plus, we speak to former 60s left-back Bill Kitchener.

Issue 29 - December 2005Another major coup for EX, as we bring you part one of an in-depth exclusive with former Hammers boss Harry Redknapp. Part one in this issue covers Harry's playing days with the Irons, although he enters controversial territory with his revelations about how legend Bobby Moore was once ejected from Upton Park and his own candid version of events that led to his break-up with Billy Bonds. Plus, he says who made him make up his mind to take over from Bonzo in August 1994. Plus, we also catch up with the American midfielder John Harkes and, following Paul Konchesky's recent recall to the full England squad, we look back at all 31 players who have worn the Three Lions while a West Ham United player.

Issue 30 - January 2006Part two of our exclusive blockbuster interview with former Hammers boss Harry Redknapp. In this issue, Redknapp reflects on his seven turbulent seasons as manager: his best and worst signings; handling the human volcano that is Paolo Di Canio; why selling Rio Ferdinand was a mistake; what he thought of the fans who abused young Frank Lampard and why even chairman Terry Brown angered him; his candid views on his successors, Glenn Roeder and Alan Pardew; and where he believes West Ham could have been today had they not sold their best, young players. Love him or hate him, Harry Redknapp is always compelling reading and this unmissable 14-page interview is as candid as they come. Plus, 10 years on from his shock debut at Manchester City, former Hammers goalkeeper Neil Finn looks back on his one and only appearance in the first team and the extraordinary circumstances surrounding it. Also, we catch up with level-headed Neil today...playing for non-league Romford. We also pay a personal tribute to the Manchester United legend George Bes, who died of liver disease, and how his loss touched the football world in the same was Bobby Moore's death did.

Issue 31 ­ February 2006Record Buys ­ Following the recent signing of Dean Ashton from Norwich for a new club record £7.5m, we look back at six previous signings for whom the club paid a record fee . . . Johnny Byrne, Bryan Robson, David Cross, Phil Parkes, Paul Goddard and John Hartson.Tomas Repka As the fiery Czech returns to his homeland, Editor Tony McDonald explains, in hard-hitting terms, why he is glad to see the back of the rugged defender.Highbury Highs ­ Although not a very happy hunting ground for the Hammers, Arsenal’s Highbury Stadium has been the scene for a number of famous away wins, as Terry Connelly recalls on the eve of our last-ever visit to the famous marble halls.Shooting Down Gunners ­ Still on the happy Highbury days theme, we talk to Alan Taylor, Hammers’ two-foal hero from the 1975 FA Cup semi-final.Clyde Best ­ tribute to the black trailblazer who was recently awarded the MBE.Hammers in Print ­ every book ever published on West Ham, title by title.

Issue 32 ­ March 2006Ron Greenwood ­ - Naturally, almost all of this issue is devoted to the late West Ham United manager who passed away on Thursday, February 9, aged 84. Our comprehensive tribute to the greatest manager in Hammers’ history includes:John Lyall ­- Reflects on everything he learned from his mentor before he succeded Ron as manager in August 1974. John reveals what it was like working so closely alongside Greenwood and explains why he was held in such high esteem among top coaches throughout the football world.Last Words ­- Tony Hogg, author of the new Who’s Who of West Ham United. He recalls how he managed to cajole the last-ever interview from Greenwood in 1998.Tributes ­- We’ve gathered together all the best and most poignant tributes to Ron from many of the people in the game who knew him best.Managing to Succeed ­- Our detailed feature lists every former West Ham player who went on to manage in the English and Scottish Leagues, plus some honourable mentions for those who made their mark overseas and at non-league level.Hammers in Print ­- Reviews of Greenwood’s autobiography, Yours Sincerely, and the other books written by past West Ham bosses.Bees Knees ­- not exactly Greenwood-related, but former Hammer Martin Allen - is now bidding to become the first Brentford man to make it really big in the game since . . . ex-Bees player Ron Greenwood!As well as thousands of words devoted to the memory of Ron, we also present some great, old photographs that are certain to evoke great memories for readers.

Issue 33 ­ April 2006Alan Devonshire ­- From rejection by Crystal Palace to a Roy of the Rovers breakthrough at West Ham in the late 70s, the former non-league discovery takes an in-depth look back at his illustrious career. Still regarded by many as the best bargain signing the club ever made, the £6,000 capture from Southall became an FA Cup hero in 1980 and would have won more than eight England caps but for a cruel, career-threatening knee injury a few years later. But the gifted Dev still came back to star in West Ham’s most successful league team ever before going on to enjoy consistent success as a manager back in non-league circles. Direct and honest, just like he was as a player, Dev has plenty of forthright views on the game today as he explodes one or two modern myths. "It’s not what you know, it’s who you know," he tells EX.Ken Brown ­- Shocked and saddened by the death of his former manager Ron Greenwood, former centre-kack Ken Brown phoned the EX office to express his own opinions of the man whose high standards he believes he could never quite reach. In a candid interview, Brown admits his no-thrills approach to defending didn’t endear him to the purist philosophies of the West Ham boss for whom he helped win successive Wembley cup finals in the mid-60s. "I never thought I was good enough for Ron," says Brown.Semi-final Heroes ­- As the modern day Hammers prepare for their first FA Cup semi-final for 15 years, we look back at some of our semi-final heroes from the past. From Billy Brown and Billy Moore in 1923, to Ronnie Boyce in 1964, Alan Taylor in 1975 and Frank Lampard in 1980, this feature recalls golden moments from the past in this most famous of cup competitions.Ken Tucker ­- Even if you weren’t around to appreciate Ken Tucker’s brand of robust and creative wing play in the 50s, this exclusive and hard-hitting interview with the now 80-year-old, larger than life character is guaranteed to entertain and enlighten. Apart from revealing the background to his long running feud with manager Ted Fenton, Tucker also recalls how he scored a hat-trick on his Hammers debut, but then hardly played again for four years, and what it was like being the club’s richest player of his era, owning shops and a car and all the trappings of wealth when his team-mates were struggling by on the maximum wage. Compelling stuff from a man who never minces his words.

Issue 34 ­ May 2006John Lyall ­- There could be only one main subject this month and, sadly, it is our special tribute to West Ham United legend John Lyall, who died of a heart attack on April 19, aged 66. Editor Tony McDonald, the last person to interview John, pens a personal and insightful tribute to the man who led Hammers to two FA Cup victories, a European final and the club’s highest-ever league placing. There are also emotional tributes from many who knew John best, and who played under him at Upton Park, including Billy Bonds and Trevor Brooking.30 Years On...Brussels Revisited ­- Hammers’ last appearance in a major European final, through the eyes of some of those who played for West Ham in that 4-2 ECWC final defeat by Anderlecht at Heysel Stadium in May 1976. Tim Crane has tracked down former players Keith Robson, Alan Taylor, Billy Jennings, Pat Holland, Tommy Taylor and John McDowell, plus physio Rob Jenkins, who all provide their unique, personal memories of that emotional night in Belgium.Joe Kirkup ­- One of the unsung heroes of the 1965 ECWC victory over Munich recalls his memories of that epic final at Wembley, as well as the rest of his 10 years spent with the Hammers after signing as a schoolboy from his native north-east. Joe reveals how close he came to going to the 1962 World Cup finals in Chile, before just missing out to team-mate Bobby Moore, and also how his time at Upton Park ended somewhat acrimoniously following a row with Ron Greenwood.Hooked on Hammers ­- Max Bretos, a leading TV broadcaster for the Fox Soccer Channel in the USA, talks of his passion for all things claret and blue on the other side of the Atlantic.

Issue 35 ­ June 2006 Sorry, this issue has sold out!Martin Peters ­ - With the nation gripped by World Cup fever, and wondering just how early Sven’s robots will be coming home this time, we turn our attention to the days when England were genuine champions of the world and West Ham players were at the heart of that success. We talk exclusively and in-depth to Martin Peters, one of the three most famous Hammers who brought the Jules Rimet trophy back to Upton Park 40 years ago.The finest midfielder of his generation, Martin looks back over his 11 years with the East London club he joined as a schoolboy and where he emerged as an England great who went on to win 67 caps.He explains his bitter disappointment and hurt at being dropped by Ron Greenwood and left out of the 1964 FA Cup-winning team and how his unique versatility proved a double-edged sword ­ he moved around the side from one position to another and even played in goal for the first team, reserves and youths! "I started one youth team game as goalkeeper but I couldn’t have been much good because Welling scored straight from a corner!" he says.Martin also reflects candidly on his sudden departure from West Ham, when Greenwood kept his word on a private agreement and he ended up joining Tottenham in March 1970.Bringing it right up to date, Martin admits he didn’t attend the final Premiership game of last season because of the unhealthy rivalry that now exists between his two former clubs. Peters talks about the divided loyalties between Hammers and Spurs and how even his family members have been affected by it.Ups and Downs ­- We look at the former West Ham players and managers affected by the end-of-season promotion and relegation issues, plus an interview with Leyton Orient’s Gary Alexander who played in the same Irons youth team as Joe Cole and Michael Carrick.Last Respects to John ­- How hundreds, including many of his former players and colleagues, paid tribute to John Lyall at the former manager's funeral in Ipswich.

Issue 36 ­ August 2006Ten Great Goals - We have selected 10 of the most memorable goals in Hammers¹ history ­ from Paolo Di Canio's wonder strike against Wimbledon to Ronnie Boyce¹s halfway line volley at Man City. See if you agree with our choiceMichael Carrick 'Madness' ­- We question the wisdom of Man Unted boss Sir Alex Ferguson for paying a whopping £18.6m for Michael Carrick.Alan Stephenson ­- Former centre-half from the late 60s recalls the thrill of playing alongside Bobby Moore, but also the disappointment of his unfulfilled potential. 'Stevo' blames lack of discipline for the team's under-achievement.Lawrie Leslie ­- Braveheart keeper Lawrie reflects on a succession of serious injuries, one of which led to him making an astonishing outfield appearance on the wing against Arsenal. And he helped to set up our late equaliser, too!

Issue 37 ­ September 2006Frank Lampard Jnr ­- We examine the contents of the former midfielder's controversial, new autobiographjy, Let's Be Frank, which provoked a stormy reaction from some West Ham fans. Are they right to be miffed? Let's reads between the lines.Jack Burkett ­- He won two Wembley cup final medals but once he had to take his own toilet roll to training. Left-back Jack also witnessed a beheading and recently he's been battling against skin cancer.Bobby Moore and Pele ­- Looking back at that special 1970 match in New York between the Hammers and the mighty Brazilians of Santos, which brought together two of the game's icons.Harry Obeney ­- What chance did Harry have of establishing himself in the first team at wing-half with Moore, Peters and Hurst as three of his rivals? Even so, he turned striker and still made an impact in the late 50s and early 60s.

Issue 38 ­ October 2006Leroy Rosenior ­- One of the most popular Hammers strikers of the 80s, Leroy looks back on the highs and lows of his time at Upton Park. From scoring the goals that helped condemn Chelsea to relegation and ensured West Ham's survival in the top flight in 1988, to the knee problems that ultimately ended his playing days after he found rehab outside the club. Now manager of Brentford, Leroy acknowledges the important influence John Lyall had on his own approach to management, plus he also admits what a pain he used to be to his former West Ham boss Billy Bonds!And in an issue that salutes the Black Hammers, Leroy also gives us his forthright views on racism. There¹s also an interesting experience with a member of the old ICF.Johnny Ayris ­- Flying right-winger of the early 70s relives the horific challenge by Chelsea hard man Ron Harris that left him in hospital.Alan Curbishley ­- Reviewing his new book and his first public comment about turning down the chance to manage West Ham before Glenn Roeder was appointed in the summer of 2001.Italian Job ­- After the disappointment of the team's recent UEFA Cup exit to Palermo, we look back at our Anglo-Italian Cup encounters of the mid-70s with Fiorentina.Gerry Gazzard ­- A personal tribute to a popular former Hammer of the early 50s who sadly died on September 29, aged 81.Ray Stewart ­- Our former penalty king expresses his concern for the current malaise.

Issue 39 ­ November 2006Julian Dicks ­- One of the most popular players to have ever worn the claret-and-blue, Julian recently returned from his adopted home in Spain to speak exclusively to EX. He looks back on a roller-coaster career plagued by serious injury, relegation and a catalogue of disciplinary problems. But, defiant as ever, Dicksy insists: "I wouldn¹t change a thing."The tough tackling former left-back talks about why he never gained a full England cap, and how he was forced to seek medical advice outside the club after a botched operation threatened his career.Read what Julian says about the four managers he played under at West Ham ­ John Lyall, Lou Macari, Billy Bonds and Harry Redknapp.He also reveals his latest attempt to get back on the professional golf circuit.And EX's Tony Mac offers a revealing insight into what Dicks was like behind the scenes during his two spells with the Hammers.Shaka Hislop ­- we track the former Hammers keeper down in Dallas, where he is still trying to settle in with the Major League Soccer club States-side after leaving Upton Park on a free transfer last summer. The popular Trinidad & Tobago No.1 relieves his surreal FA Cup final experience, the thrill of playing in the 2006 World Cup finals and explains why he was grateful to Ludo Miklosko.Peter Grotier ­- another exclusive interview with a former keeper. Peter worked for his chance to replace Bobby Ferguson in the early 70s but lost out when Mervyn Day emerged as the new No.1. Now a very successful shoe wholesale importer in Essex, Grotier recalls the time manager Ron Greenwood told him in front if his team-mates that he would never play for the Hammers again.The night we battered Leeds ­- re-living a brilliant 7-0 battering of mighty Leeds United in November 1966, which still rates as arguably the finest league win in Hammers' history.

Issue 40 ­ December 2006Alan Curbishley ­ Back at Upton Park as manager 27 years after he left the club as a player, Alan Curbishley talks to EX about his five year battle to try and establish himself in John Lyall¹s team of the late 70s. Curbs pays tribute to Lyall and Greenwood, the men who did most to shape his career as a central midfielder, but he also explains why it never quite happened for him at his local club. "Yes, I was a pain in the arse to John at the end," admits Curbs, who first watched his favourite team from the North Bank terraces as a kid before rejecting Chelsea¹s offer to sign for West Ham straight from school. "I pretended to be Bobby Moore in the playground," he says. As well as this exclusive interview, there are also great action photos of Curbs in his Hammers playing days.When Bobby Moore was 'sacked' ­- Hard to believe it's true, but manager Ron Greenwood really did strip the legendary Moore of the club captaincy after the England skipper refused to sign a new contract in the months before the 1966 World Cup finals. With a steely resolve that surely no manager of a Premiership club would show in today's era of player power, Greenwood resigned himself to selling his best player and said: "We can¹t have a man leading the side who doesn't want to play for us." We look at the story behind this amazing saga that Greenwood made public, much to the dismay of the world class defender.Bill Lansdowne Snr & Jnr ­- One of the successful father and son pairings to make their mark at first team level at the Boleyn, we present exclusive interviews with Bill Lansdowne, who won a second division championship medal in 1958, plus catch up with his son, Billy junior, who played in the late 70s and who now lives and works in Sweden.Goal Feast of '66 ­- We look back at some thrilling victories from the winter of 1966-67 in which Geoff Hurst was especially rampant.

Issue 41 ­ January 2007Mervyn Day ­ - We catch up with Alan Curbishley¹s No.2 at Upton Park. Mervyn looks back at his turbulent playing days as a young goalkeeper at Upton Park in the early 70s, as well as providing an insight into his working relationship with Curbs and what it's like when the West Ham fans get on your back.Although Mervyn left the Hammers to enjoy happy days again with Leyton Orient, Aston Villa and Leeds United, he told EX: "The way I was treated by the people here at West Ham when my father died will always stay with me."League Cup Marathon ­- Looking back at the epic League Cup semi-final clash with Stoke City, which took four games to settle an absorbing tie in 1972. Remember the drama? Gordon Banks saving THAT penalty from Geoff Hurst under the Boleyn floodlights, Bobby Ferguson getting hurt in the second replay . . . and Bobby Moore having to pull on the green keeper¹s shirt when nobody else in a claret-and-blue shirt would!Noel Dwyer ­- From hero to zero, the rise and fall of the keeper who found himself the subject of match-fixing rumours, after a 5-3 home defeat by Newcastle United, before leaving Upton Park under somewhat of a cloud in the summer of 1960.Kicking out the hooligans ­- As regulars to the Boleyn in the 60s and 70s will recall with displeasure, the fear of trouble on the terraces was never far from the surface.Lawrie Leslie¹s comeback ­- Yes, our former Scottish international keeper recently made an unexpected football comeback. . . at the age of 71!

Issue 42 ­ March/April 2007Paul Goddard ­- One of the most successful strikers to wear the claret and blue, Paul cost a club record £800,000 when he signed from QPR in 1980 and when West Ham sold him six years later, they netted a record fee for the chunky 'Sarge'.In this issue, Goddard talks from his lovely farmhouse home about the highs of partnering David Cross, scoring in the League Cup final and playing in Europe, plus the lows of injury and being frozen out of the first team.He explains why he reluctantly made a tearful departure to Newcastle . . . and the pleasure of returning to Upton Park in 2001 as Glenn Roeder¹s No.2. What went wrong under Roeder that culminated in relegation in May 2003? Goddard reveals his own thoughts on the problems and says why ignoring Roeder¹s warnings proved so costly to the Hammers.Paul also talks about his new career as a football agent.Tony Carr ­ - Renowned youth coach and academy director, Tony has given most of his life to West Ham and the fruits of his labours are there for all to see in the form of aspiring youngsters who became international stars. However, as well as talking about his role in nurturing young talent, Tony also reflects on the days when he was bidding for fame as a Hammers player himself. A prolific striker at youth and reserve level, he explains why he didn¹t make the first team grade . . . and why he turned to coaching.The 'Ghost Match' ­- As the behaviour of English fans in Europe is brought sharply back into focus following trouble involving Manchester United and Spurs supporters in recent weeks, we recall the occasion when West Ham were punished by UEFA after travelling Irons were blamed for violent scenes in Spain.Betty Cearns Thomas ­- The sale of West Ham United last November brought to an end 111 years of the Cearns family dynasty on the board of directors at Upton Park. Terry Brown is reportedly £30m richer for his dealings with the new Icelandic owners but for all his wealth, the former chairman and majority shareholder could not possibly take with him the many years of pleasure, experiences and wonderful memories enjoyed by Betty Cearns Thomas, whose father literally built the club. EX visited this extraordinary lady of 87 who really has been there and done it all . . .

Issue 43 ­ Summer 2007Bobby Moore back at Wembley ­ If watching England labouring under Steve McClaren is enough to put you off a visit to the 'new' Wembley, then don't let it. The main reason for going there now is to view the magnificent bronze bust in honour of the greatest player West Ham and England has ever known. Tim Crane rubbed shoulders with the high and mighty to report from the official unveiling ceremony.Scott Minto -­ Although never a big name in the context of Hammers history, this former left-back is fast carving out a name for himself in the football media. Likeable Scott also explains why he is putting his faith in Curbs to get it right.Marc-Vivien Foé ­- Four years on from the tragic death of the former Hammer, Terry Roper pays tribute to the Cameroon midfielder.American Dream ­- Re-lived by Jack Burkett, who looks back on West Ham¹s eye-opening tour of the USA in the summer of 1963.Martin Britt ­- He scored four goals ­ incredibly, all with his head ­ to clinch victory over Liverpool in the FA Youth Cup final, but striker Martin Britt explains why his first team hopes turned sour at the age of 21 in the mid-60s.

Issue 44 Autumn 2007Carlos Tevez - An appreciation of the Argentine crowd favourite who, almost single-handedly, led West Ham to safety in a frenetic, nailbiting finish to the 2006-07 season.We also have an exclusive interview with another ‘hero' who played a major role in the Hammers' battle to stay in the Premiership. Our US-based scribe, James Clark, recently caught up with leading barrister Jim Sturman - the QC who represented West Ham in the hotly disputed Tevez case that, if relegated Sheffield United had their way, could have gone all the way to the high court.Jeroen Boere - Remembering the big Dutch forward from the early 90s who tragically took his own life in his Spanish apartment. Tony Cottee pays tribute to his former strike partner ‘Yozza'.Andy Smillie - In the late 50s this forward even drew praise from the great Hungarian Ferenc Puskas . . . but Ron Greenwood was not quite as impressed. Now running a seafront restaurant at Southend, Andy talks exclusively to EX.Opening Days - Looking back at the opening matches of the season, spanning the last five decades.Miracles CAN happen - twice! - We uncover some remarkable coincidences when comparing last season's dramatic survival act and a similar ‘great escape' from relegation 30 years ago that led to survival.Steve Bacon tribute dinner - Reporting from a special event in honour of West Ham's long-serving club photographer, with a joke or six from Toiny Gale!Eddie Gillam - Another nostalgic reunion - this time for our former kit manager who recently retired.Old Boys' Update - What former Hammers have been doing away from Upton Park.

Issue 45 Spring 2008

Sir Trevor Brooking EXCLUSIVE!The Manager: Our first interview with the West Ham United legend, Sir Trevor looks back on his eventful 13 matches as caretaker manager in 2003, when he briefly held the reins during Glenn Roeder's illness and the arrival of Alan Pardew. He recalls the dramatic finale to the 2002-03 season that ended in relegation and then the difficult early days of life back in the second grade. Read why he enjoyed it more the second time around and his revelation that, despite being a member of the Hammers' board, he played no part in Roeder's sacking. The FA's Director of Football Development had sympathy for Roeder, who was axed just three league games into the 2003-04 season. Sir Trev, who expresses doubts about the overuse of ProZone technology in the modern game, also talks candidly about the problems today's managers face handling different, non-footballing issues and why he was eventually pleased to hand over the baton to Pardew.The Player: Trevor's reflections on his brief managerial reign are perfectly complemented by our review of his illustrious playing career, spanning 636 matches and 17 seasons. Relive all the pivotal moments in the playing days of the former midfield genius and 1980 FA Cup-winning hero.

Sons of Managers - To tie in with the launch of the new book, West Ham United: The Managers, we introduced three sons of former Hammers bosses - Alan Fenton, Neil Greenwood (left) and Murray Lyall. It's not always easy being the son of a famous father, as this interesting trio reveal.

Graham Paddon - Following the sad death of Graham (right), we pay tribute to the former midfielder who was a key member of the cup final teams of the mid-70s. Keith Robson, who played alongside Paddon and later lived near him in Norwich, recalls the man he knew well on and off the field.

Alan Dickie - One of the lesser known figures from the 60s, goalkeeper Dickie made only 15 League and Cup appearances before giving up football to become joining the Metropolitan Police. We talk exclusively to the man who got his chance when Lawrie Leslie was injured but couldn't displace Jim Standen from the team that enjoyed Wembley glory in 1964 and '65.

Bob Wyllie - A keeper who played even fewer first team games than Dickie, Ernie Gregory's understudy played only 13 times but he is remembered here.

Malcolm Musgrove - tribute to another ex-Hammer who has recently passed away, this time we pay tribute to the most prolific post-war winger in Hammers' history and one of the heroes of our 1958 promotion-winning side.

Justin Fashanu - One of the most controversial characters to ever pull on the West Ham shirt, although this former Dr Barnado's boy and football's first £1m black player made most of the headlines before and after his very brief loan spell under Lou Macari at Upton Park at the end of 1989. A fascinating, if at times harrowing, account of a sad life that ended in suicide.

Hammers v Kuwait - Recalling our behind closed doors clash with the Kuwait national team in September 1977.

Issue 46 Spring 2008

Phil Parkes EXCLUSIVE!Arguably the finest goalkeeper in Hammers' history, Phil Parkes dominates the latest issue like he commanded the penalty box throughout the 1980s. We talk in-depth and exclusively to Big Phil, who cost a then world record fee (for a keeper) of £565,000 when John Lyall signed him out of the blue from QPR in February 1979.

Apart from recalling the highs and lows of his memorable career between the sticks, including Cup runs and what it was like playing behind the best-ever West Ham United team in 1985-86, Parkesy takes us behind the scenes.

He explains how Lyall changed the time the players started training at Chadwell Heath in the mornings especially to accommodate his record signing. How his daily route across London involved a 6.30am start, train and tube journeys, bacon butties and the co-operation of team-mates who became his part-time ‘chauffeur'.

Read what Phil has to say about controversial referee Clive Thomas, who infamously failed to disallow Liverpool's crucial goal in the 1981 League Cup final.

And his equally strong condemnation of Lou Macari, the disciplinarian boss who succeeded Lyall for seven stormy months.

Indeed, it was Lyall - the then boss of Ipswich Town - who ultimately lured Phil away from Upton Park after 440 first team matches spanning 12 years. Parkesy reveals the offer he simply couldn't refuse.

Ken Brown picks his Dream Team - Here's one for fans of the late 50s and 60s, as long-serving centre-half Ken Brown looks back on the great teams he played for, including the 1958 second division champions and those Wembley cup triumphs under Ron Greenwood. EX invited Ken to choose his all-time Hammers Dream team from the players he played with at Upton Park. See if you agree with his selections...Seventies Goal Rush - If your spirits need a lift after three consecutive 4-0 defeats in recent weeks, then this nostalgic feature looking back at a goal glut from early in the 1974-75 season should be just the antidote. Yes, believe it or not, we really did score an incredible 20 goals in just four games and 12 days!

Les Sealey - One of the most eccentric characters ever to play for the club, Les Sealey was much more than a very capable deputy for Ludek Miklosko. In this special tribute to ‘The Cat', we reflect on the life and times of a strong personality who made his mark on West Ham in numerous ways before his tragic early death at the age of 43.

John Smith - Forget the plain name, this classy wing-half of the late 50s had all the attributes to go right to the top. This article examines how Johnny's talented presence might have proved an obstacle to Bobby Moore's development and why his career went downhill following his move to Spurs.

Ken Bainbridge - Although he is not in the best of health, the oldest living Hammer tries to recall scoring the fastest-ever West Ham goal that has earned him a place in East End folklore.

Plus...our request to the new owner/chairman of West Ham United, your letters, ex-Hammers transfer update and news of the biggest-ever West Ham memorabilia collection that is coming up for auction. Also, memorabilia and lots of great pictures that ooze nostalgia!

Issue 47 Summer 2008They changed West Ham United forever50 years on, we salute the men who changed the course of West Ham United's history...

In this special commemorative issue of EX we salute the Men of '58, who romped to the second division championship and ended Hammers' 26 years absence from the top flight.

Who knows where the club would be now if Ted Fenton and his swashbuckling Irons hadn't gained promotion at the end of that epic 1957-58 season. We dread to think.

Ken Brown, the ever-popular and charismatic centre-half, recently sat down at his Norwich home with EX's Terry Roper to recall all the twists and turns from that momentous campaign . . . the key matches and moments, the goals, his team-mates, the ups and downs and how Hammers overcame early adversity, including the loss of stricken skipper Malcolm Allison, to reclaim their place in Division One.

As well as taking an in-depth look back at the season itself, we present full game-by-game and end-of-season statistics and also reveal what became of Fenton and his players in the years that followed. If you were around at the Boleyn to cheer the team to promotion, then you will enjoy this journey back down memory lane. And if you are too young to remember it or weren't even born at the time, then this collectors' item will fill an important gap in your Hammers history knowledge bank.

Although the achievements of the Men of '58 deservedly dominate this edition, there is plenty more to enjoy from more recent eras.

Honouring Ron and JohnSir Alex Ferguson was at Upton Park recently to lead the tributes to former West Ham managers Ron Greenwood and John Lyall, who both sadly died within two months of each other early in 2006.

The Manchester United boss was the guest of honour at a special dinner organised by the sons of the two ex-Hammers chiefs and attended by a host of former players who used to grace the Upton Park turf.

We've a full report from the 500 sell-out dinner in words and exclusive pictures.

Paul HefferThis once promising centre-half made only 17 first team appearances for Hammers in the late 60s before a knee injury wrecked his career at the age of 24. He had played twice against Mancxhester United in the top flight, alongside Bobby Moore, and also experienced the thrill of facing Real Madrid in that historic first indoor match played in the Houston Astrodome.

Paul tells how he had to give up the game and earn a living from the family greengrocer's business.

But Paul battled his way back into football and, having gained his coaching qualifications, is now working back at West Ham as Assistant Youth Academy Director.

Marathon ManPopular defender Steve Potts reflects on his recent magnificent efforts in completing his first London Marathon in a very respectable time - all to help raise close on £20,000 for the Children with Leukaemia charity.

Sissons sizzlerOne of the greatest goals seen at Upton Park in the 60s was the thunderbolt from left-winger John Sissons against Liverpool in February 1969. Relive the moment with us in words and pictures ('Sisso' is seen here, right, being congratulated by Trevor Brooking and Martin Peters).

Plus...tributes to the late John Cushley and Ken Tucker, Memorabilia, your letters and more...

Issue 48 Autumn 2008

BOBBY MOORETo mark the 50th anniversary of Bobby Moore's league debut for West Ham against Manchester United at Upton Park, we reflect on the dramatic events of that historic night and the circumstances surrounding the controversial selection of the player who would ultimately become West Ham and England¹s greatest captain.

WEST HAM WHIP UNITED TO GO TOPContinuing our look back at Bobby Moore's debut, we review in depth the match itself . . . Monday, September 8, 1958, the night Hammers defeated Matt Busby's Manchester United 3-2 to climb to the top of the first division . .

NO MOORE SIXNot before time, West Ham have finally 'retired' Bobby Moore's coveted Number 6 shirt. A fitting tribute to a great man, or a cynical marketing ploy to provide a much-needed boost to the club¹s commercial funds and good PR at a time when fans were growing increasingly agitated by increased ticket prices and a lack of incoming transfer activity?These are the two alternate ways supporters greeted the news that West Ham were going to retire the Number 6 shirt made famous by its most revered player.We ask why it took so long and question the club's motives for doing so now. Also, the complete list of every Hammer who has subsequently worn the shirt that Mooro made famous.

ALAN CURBISHLEYIn the wake of manager and former West Ham 'Old Boy' Alan Curbishley's recent sudden exit, we examines his 20 months in the hotseat, what he will be remember for and ask: was it a case of right club, wrong time?

PAUL HILTON INTERVIEWWe talk exclusively to West Ham's former utility man Paul Hilton (right) - now a valued member of the club¹s Youth Academy coaching staff - about the highs and lows of his playing career plus a remarkably perceptive decision by Hammers legend Billy Bonds which, arguably, changed the course of Paul's life . . .

DEREK WOODLEYLooking back on the career of former right-winger Derek Woodley, who has held a unique place in the history of Wembley Stadium for more than half a century.

AND NOW FOR THE BAD NEWSHammers News founder Tony McDonald on the demise of the official monthly club magazine he launched more than 21 years ago . . .

MEMORABILIAReporting from the first Football Memorabilia Auction at Stevenage, where hundreds of evocative West Ham-related items came under the hammer.

Issue 49 Winter 2008-09

FRANK McAVENNIEMore than 22 years after his goals and unselfish team play almost shot Hammers to the title, Frank McAvennie remains a huge favourite among West Ham fans. EX caught up with a unique personality for an in-depth candid chat.

The colourful former Scotland international recalls how he arrived at Upton Park a complete unknown in 1985 ­ and how a dyed blond look (and his goals) immediately changed all that. How an appearance in front of 15m viewers on TV's Wogan thrust him into the spotlight ­ and the celebrity lifestyle that followed it.

He recalls his battles with opposing centre-backs and names the best defenders he ever faced. The Boys of 86 and the signing that Frank believes stopped Hammers from going in the right direction.

Frank pays tribute to John Lyall and states why West Ham¹s sacking of the man who signed him was "the worst thing he has ever seen in football". He told EX: "I think a lot of people who had been at West Ham under John felt betrayed by the club over his sacking and the way he was treated."

Macca explains why he despised Lou Macari ­- Lyall's successor -­ and his dismay at being given a free transfer by Billy Bonds ­ bowing out in typically flamboyant style with a second-half hat-trick as a sub in the final game of 1991-92.

"Maybe I could've done things a lot differently and maybe I should have, but I'm not one for having regrets," added Frank. "I know I could have done a lot more as a player, though, if it hadn't been for the injury at Stoke, so I didn't fulfil my potential."

And we bring it right up to date by finding out what North-East-based Frank is up to these days.

Quite simply, another unmissable EX exclusive...

LAWRIE LESLIELooking back on the 1961-62 season, when West Ham faced Arsenal in a game that saw Scottish international goalkeeper Lawrie Leslie -­ alias 'Braveheart' - ­ become one of Upton Park's greatest cult heroes with an outfield performance that stunned all observers.

HARRY HOUDINIWe reflect on the memorable events surrounding West Ham in the 1996-97 season which saw the signing of some foreign imports that backfired in spectacular fashion, plus a new strike-force that saved Hammers from certain relegation from the Premiership. Just how did manager Harry Redknapp recover from one of his darkest periods in management to pull off the Great Escape?

IAN CRAWFORDFans old enough to remember the start of manager Ron Greenwood¹s reign at Upton Park in 1961 will be saddened to learn of the passing of Hammers¹ former flying winger Ian Crawford. Ian was Ron¹s second signing for his new club in July 1961 at a cost of £10,000 from Hearts, where the Edinburgh-born Scot had won all major domestic honours in a seven-year spell at Tynecastle. We remember one of the Academy¹s forgotten graduates.

50 WEST HAM MOMENTSTo mark our 50th issue of EX, we look back at 50 key moments in the club's post-war history. It's not meant to be a definitive record of the 50 biggest achievements in West Ham United's history, nor is it intended to list all of the club's most important matches.

It is more a chronological look back at the key defining moments of the past 50 years - both good and bad - and the events that did much to shape our history. Seven pages that will bring back some happy memories interwoven with one or two not so pleasant reminders of days gone by!CLYDE BEST - The Big Man's back in town!There is always a pulse of excitement at the mere mention of Clyde Best. To West Ham fans it is a name that conjures up images of League Cup classics, Blackpool night clubs, racist taunts, playing in goal against Leeds United, not playing in goal against Stoke City and the overriding memory of a barrel-chested Bermudan powerhouse in the resplendent sky blue away shirt with two claret hoops.

EX's Tim Crane went backstage at the Cliffs Pavilion theatre in Southend to report on the big man's return to England, appearing on stage alongside his old strike partner Bryan ‘Pop' Robson at an event hosted by Tony Gale and Phil Parkes.

MIKE GRICETerry Roper with some personal recollections from 50 years ago about West Ham's former speedy right-winger Mike Grice, who endured a difficult time in winning over the hard-to-please Upton Park fans. This special feature traces Mike's torturous road to first team stardom and ends with his tragic suicide.

WHEN RON WANTED TO SACK HIS STARSAn in-depth review of season 1970-71, when West Ham consistently hit the headlines - often for all the wrong reasons. It was a campaign that created a huge amount of turmoil at the club and the reverberations had far-reaching effects on some of the biggest names in the game.

Plus...

HARRY REDKNAPP TRIBUTE DINNERThe Football Writers' Association pay tribute to former Hammers player and manager to mark his 25 years in football management.

A FAN'S MEMORIESEX subscriber Allan Norris looks back over half-a-century of loyal support for the Hammers.

MARK WARD - the inside storyFormer West Ham favourite Mark Ward was released from prison on May 11, 2009 after serving a four-year sentence. At the gates to meet him was EX editor Tony McDonald - Wardy's friend, who has just published his compelling new autobiography titled From Right-Wing to B-Wing . . . Premier League to Prison. McDonald joined Mark and his family on Wardy's first day of freedom, following his release from HMP Kirkham. Here is the exclusive inside story on Mark from the journalist who knows him best.

BOBBY & JIMMY - Down Mexico wayTerry Roper continues his look back on the era when England legends Bobby Moore and Jimmy Greaves were team-mates at Upton Park and, in particular, to the astonishing events that unfolded during the unforgettable summer of 1970.

JOHN LYALL - the playerTurning the clock back nearly half-a-century, we reflect on the chain of events that brought a tragic end to the playing career of West Ham's former manager.

JIMMY NEIGHBOURFollowing the recent tragic death of the former Hammers winger, Billy Bonds pays tribute to his ex-team mate and the man he brought back to the club to revive the youth system. "A smashing bloke - a man of integrity," says Bonzo.Also...Your letters, memorabilia and previously unpublished pictures that simply ooze nostalgia!

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Issue 52 Autumn 2009

TREVOR MORLEY - the BIG exclusiveYou've all heard the rumours. Now for the truth. We bring you the former Hammers striker's amazing exclusive story - a story he turned down £20,000 for from a national newspaper almost 20 years ago.

In our riveting, new 10-page interview, Trevor tells all about:

*Gay rumours . . . he didn't handle it well.

*His mate ‘Bish' . . . Ian Bishop and what they're doing now.

*Being stabbed . . . what really happened in March 1990.

*Masked gunmen . . . the dangerous side of Trevor's business today.

*Murder at his house . . . why Trevor was called as a court witness.

*Oh yes, and not forgetting the drug addicts . . . everyday situations he has to manage.

Former Hammer-of-the-Year Morley, who joined Hammers from Manchester City in 1989, also looks back on his five-and-a-half seasons at Upton Park, three of which he finished as top scorer.

SINGING THE BLUESWe reflect on a memorable West Ham victory against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in September 2002, when two Italian superstars - Paolo Di Canio and Gianfranco Zola - stole the show.JIMMY BLOOMFIELDLooking back on the career of West Ham's former highly skilled midfielder Jimmy Bloomfield, who was a well-known name on the London football scene for many years.BOB FAIRMAN - Gentleman GiantWest Ham supporters everywhere owe a lasting debt of gratitude to Betty Parsons, the daughter of former West Ham United captain Robert Samuel Fairman. But for the unstinting effort to keep alive her father's memory, West Ham fans would have been denied the opportunity to see the mesmerising array of memorabilia which has survived two world wars. We report on a remarkable man who thus far has been denied pictorial immortality in the various West Ham Who's Whos and countless other books on the club which completely overlook his role as one of Hammers' earliest talismen . . .

TONY COTTEEHow close did Tony Cottee come to taking over at West Ham a few years ago? Tony McDonald finds out what really happened behind the scenes in our latest big exclusive.

As TC admits here, he was him who brought the possibility of buying West Ham United to the attention of the Icelandic consortium who eventually took over the club at the end of 2006.The former striker, the fourth highest goalscorer in Hammers' history, masterminded a takeover bid that could have seen him make the ultimate journey from the terraces to the boardroom.

But his dream of wresting control of the club from Terry Brown was smashed when it hit an immovable iceberg that appeared from almost nowhere. That iceberg appears to be on the brink of dissolving amid fresh takeover moves at Upton Park, so it's timely to examine Cottee's previous role that brought him excitement and bitter frustration in equal measure.

"The main point I'd like to make is that my consortium was deadly serious about buying out Terry Brown and his regime a few years ago, but it wasn't to be," says TC, who would have been the ideal link between the fans and the boardroom and also adept at handling the media.

To underline just how serious he was, Cottee explains that two members of his consortium soon went on to become the chairman and managing director at Premier League Hull City, while a third is now on the board at Colchester United.

For the first time since his original business plan was effectively hijacked by the Icelandics, he talks candidly to EX and sheds new light on just what did happen, including his despair at being banned from his beloved Boleyn Ground by Brown and some strong views about the egotistical Eggert Magnusson who took over the chairman's seat Cottee hoped would be his.

In our 10-page epic, Tony also reflects candidly on his two spells at West Ham as a legendary player - firstly as a teenage sensation under John Lyall and then as a relegation saviour for Harry Redknapp. Read what he has to say about Trevor Brooking, the foreign invasion at West Ham that effectively forced him to leave the club for the second time against his wishes.

He provides his thoughts on how the game changed for better or worse since he finally hung up his boots in 2001 and why he has always found it easy to relate to the supporters.

We also preview his new Goals DVD and find out which strikes in a claret-and -blue shirt gave him most satisfaction. To order a copy of Tony Cottee's Career Goals, visit the website www.tonycottee306.comFRENCH FARCETerry Roper reflects on West Ham's ‘French Connection' - a galaxy of Gallic players who have crossed the English Channel to play at Upton Park and who, with few exceptions, have proved to be unmitigated disasters. Qui, Qui, Qui! to Fredi Kanoute and Sebastien Schemmell but it was a big non, non, non! to the likes of David Terrier, Kaba Diawara and Sebastien Carole.BRIAN RHODES REMEMBEREDWe turn the clock back nearly 50 years and recall the career of West Ham's former goalkeeper who cheated death in a fatal car crash during his time at Upton Park.

It's the latest book to his the shelves from Football World, the publishers of EX magazine.

As well as chronicling - in words and pictures - Jack's rapid rise through the youth ranks at Upton Park and his seasons as a first team regular, including of course those historic Wembley Cup final successes in 1964 and '65, Terry Roper's thoroughly-researched book takes the reader inside the Hammers' camp and probes many more poignant personal issues too.

In what he admits was an emotional journey back through the family archives, the self-effacing Jack reveals at the start of the book how shocked he was to discover that he has German ancestry. He explains why his grandfather changed the spelling of his surname for the sake of his family.

Jack told EX: "It was hard, but pleasurable, working on the book. I used to cry to myself and say, ‘blimey, this is my life.' My one big regret is that my father isn't alive to read it.VIV GIBBINS - LESSON IN LOYALTYTim Crane spent a highly enjoyable afternoon in the company of Viv Gibbins' nephew, John Collins and his wife Marjorie, discussing the remarkable life of West Ham's most famous unpaid servant . . . Vivian Gibbins, one of the great Irons pioneers, who later became a respected school teacher in East London.

Viv amassed 63 goals from 138 league and cup games. In 1930-31, he was the first unpaid player to top the club's scoring charts, when his haul of 18 goals for once kept the prolific Jimmy Ruffell and Victor Watson at bay.

An extraordinary tale. An extraordinary man.

Also...

The latest Hammers-related memorabilia, your letters and details of an exclusive offer for EX readers to buy the rare book, Ray Stewart's Spot On With Tonka.

CLICK BELOW TO ORDER ISSUE 53 OF EX...

Issue 54 Spring 2010

NOEL CANTWELLWe reflect on the life of times of Noel Cantwell, the epitome of a sporting hero and one of the greatest captains in West Ham United's history. From his arrival as a starry-eyed from Cork in 1952, earning £7 per week, to his eventual and sudden transfer to Manchester United in November 1960, we chronicle over nine pages the life of the ever-popular left-back and inspirational leader.

But Cantwell is remembered by many as much more than a cultured defender who played for 15 years and captained his country before going on to manage the Republic of Ireland. Along with his big mate Malcolm Allison, John Bond and one or two other visionaries among the Upton Park playing staff in the late 50s, ‘Canters' played a key role in the formation of what became universally known as the Hammers' Academy, with Noel helping to nurture schoolboy prodigies such as Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters.

Of course, it was Noel who advised manager Ted Fenton to give Moore his first team debut against Man United in 1958 after Allison became ill with tuberculosis. The rest is history.

Noel went on to lead the Red Devils to FA Cup glory in 1963 before turning his tactical brain to management at Coventry City in 1967. After leaving Highfield Road in 1972, he went to the States to manage New England Tea Men in the NASL and returned to England to manage Peterborough United in 1986.Sadly, Noel died of cancer in 2005 but his legacy and the happy memories he created live on.

IRISH CONNECTIONSContinuing the strong Irish theme in this issue, we list every former West Ham United player, either Irish-born or who have represented Northern Ireland or Republic of Ireland. And Donegal-based supporter John McCann explains how and why his own claret and blue allegiance grew from his days growing up in West Belfast in the mid-60s.

JOE DURRELLEX has managed to track down one of the unsung members of the early-70s Hammers' teams in popular former winger Joe Durrell. Fans who stood on the terraces in 1971-72 will doubtless recall the nippy wing man who supplied many pinpoint crosses for the likes of Geoff Hurst and Clyde Best.

Well now we've got the first in-depth interview with Joe, who is still based in his native East London where he works as a schoolteacher.

Although he made only six first team appearances, all in that 1971-72 campaign, Joe provides a fascinating insight into what it was like being part of the West Ham set-up between 1968-72.From the thrill of making his debut against Stoke City and Gordon Banks on September 25, 1971 to the heartbreak of knowing that he had no long-term future at West Ham, and what became of him after he left Upton Park, little Joe shares some fascinating stories with us that are bound to evoke great memories.

GEOFF HURST TESTIMONIALWere you at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday, November 23, 1971, when the Hammers met a star-studded European XI that included World Cup stars Eusebio and Uwe Seeler? Well, don't worry if you weren't because we've a two-page feature in this issue looking back on Hurstie's big night.

JIMMY RUFFELL (Part 1 of 2)West Ham legends don't come much bigger than goalscoring left-winger Jimmy Ruffell, one of the stars of the early-20s. EX tracked down the only surviving grandson of the former Hammers hero, who has provided us with some extraordinary new stories about Jimmy and has also kindly loaned us some rare and previously unpublished photographs of the great man and his Irons' team-mates that adorn this issue of the magazine.

And in this, the first of an exclusive two-parter, there's a sensational, new revelation from the Ruffell family concerning the controversy surrounding the 1923 FA Cup final against Bolton Wanderers.

What was it that the players of both teams were told before the start of this amazing match that could have changed the course of football history? All is revealed in this remarkable eight-page feature on one of the club's greatest servants.DOUG WRAGGYet another former winger features in Issue 54. This time, we get the thoughts of Dougie Wragg on the seven years he spent at The Boleyn between 1953-60, which brought him 16 first team appearances.

Plus...your letters, memorabilia and the Things We Miss About Football.

Issue 55 Summer 2010

FA CUP ANNIVERSARY SPECIALOn the 30th anniversary of West Ham United's famous FA Cup Final victory against London rivals Arsenal, this special issue of EX recalls that momentous day in May 1980 when our second division side turned the form-book upside down.

DAVID CROSS - help us find his Wembley shirt!EX magazine hopes to reunite popular former Hammers centre-forward David Cross with the No.9 top he wore on that epic day when, with a selfless performance, his tireless efforts as the lone striker did much to swing the game West Ham's way.

Minutes after our front cover picture was taken, ‘Crossy' swapped shirts with Gunners' Willie Young . . . and hasn't seen it since.

Years later, Young gave David's shirt to an English West Ham supporter based in Norway. With your help, we want to track down that mystery man and hopefully negotiate the shirt's safe return to its original owner.

In this issue, we talk to David Cross about his elusive Cup final shirt and more.HOW THE CUP WAS WONWe reflect on the central characters as well as the defining moments that formed a crucial part of West Ham's historic 1980 FA Cup Final victory, including a round-by-round look at the heroes who paved the way to Wembley.

TACTICAL VICTORYThirty years on, EX takes a closer look at the tactics and key moments that decided the final and we explain why it wasn't only Stuart Pearson's ‘withdrawn role' that made all the difference.

GEORGE PARRIS - An English success in South AfricaUnlike Capello and his abysmal bunch of overrated prima donnas who failed so miserably in the World Cup finals, George Parris did himself and his country proud in the Republic this summer. Read about the former defender's charity mission to improve the lives of poverty-stricken kids and how his selfless actions also gave a welcome boost to the Bobby Moore Fund for cancer research.

JIMMY RUFFELL - Goalscoring legend (part 2)Following the startling revelations relating to the 1923 FA Cup Final in our last issue, we conclude the fascinating story of West Ham's finest ever winger, including his various ventures in the Essex shop and pub trade.

CUP CURSE ON SPURSLooking back on one of the great FA Cup quarter-final ties - Spurs v West Ham - during the 1955-56 season. It was a match that had everything as well as a fascinating tale of intrigue and superstition surrounding the ‘Curse of Gypsy Dan'.

WHAT WE MISS...Bemoaning the loss of standing areas. Hillsborough was a tragedy that must never be repeated but, we ask, did the authorities overreact in compelling clubs to close all terraced sections and transform their grounds into all-seater stadia?THE BOOK TRADE - a sorry taleThe increasing difficulties that confront and frustrate small publishers today and the likely knock-on effect for keen collectors of West Ham-related books.

Plus...

A get-well message for stroke victim ERNIE GREGORY, MEMORABILIA and many great pictures - including many that are previously unpublished - in this latest feast of West Ham nostalgia.

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Issue 56 Autumn 2010STAR-FINDER RONNIE GALEWe talk to the former scout who discovered some of the finest young talent to ever emerge through West Ham's youth ranks - notably Tony Cottee, Paul Ince, Steve Potts and Stuart Slater. Ronnie reveals how he unearthed these future stars, three of whom were later sold for millions of pounds.

Serving under John Lyall, Lou Macari, Billy Bonds and Harry Redknapp in various guises over a near 20-year period,

Gale gives an illuminating behind the scenes insight into how the club's scouting system operated.He also lifts the lid on the ones who got away . . . how the club failed to land Tony Adams and the part a Wimpy Bar may have played in him going to Arsenal; the damning "he's too fat and can't run" verdict on John Terry that came back to haunt Hammers; and others, such as Robert Lee, Paul Konchesky and John Moncur, who slipped through the net for one reason or another.

Ronnie talks for the first time about his acrimonious departure and explains why he ignored legal advice to take his former employers to court. One of the most compelling interviews we've ever published and not to be missed.

KENNY BROWN INTERVIEWEven though Hammers were relegated from the top flight in May 1992, no-one who was at Upton Park on the night of Manchester United's visit late on in that dismal season will forget the winning goal scored by Kenny Brown that wrecked their title chances.

Popular full-back Kenny re-lives his biggest moment in football with us.Now assistant to Julian Dicks at Grays Athletic, Kenny also talks about Harry Redknapp's ‘foreign invasion' at Upton Park, the Joey Beauchamp affair, playing for Billy Bonds and his nomadic football career.

WHAT HAVE WE BECOME?As the new owners of West Ham continue to implement drastic cost-cutting measures, we suggest they have overstepped the mark by disrespecting the Lyall and Greenwood families and scoring another insulting PR own goal. We reveal that long-serving former physio Rob Jenkins has also had his match tickets withdrawn.

WHAT'S IN A NAME?Tonka, Psycho, Stretch, Muffin, Sarge, Stag, Mad Dog and the Terminator . . . just some of the sobriquets given to ex-Hammers. Discover many more in our feature on nicknames.

CLIVE CHARLES' LEGACYFormer winger Joe Durell goes Stateside and visits a sports complex in Portland, Oregon, where he was delighted to find a monument to his one-time Upton Park team-mate, the late Clive Charles.

OLYMPIC SPIRITAs the club's new regime press on with their plans to move the Hammers to the new Olympic Stadium in Stratford after the 2012 Games, we look back at past West Ham-Olympic connections.

WORLD APARTWho played one friendly game for West Ham in the 70s and went on to manage his country in the 2010 World Cup finals? A tricky quiz question is answered...

Plus...

MEMORABILIA and many great pictures - including many that are previously unpublished - in this latest feast of West Ham nostalgia.